Downing: Hodgson perfect for England role

West Bromwich Albion academy coach Keith Downing believes Roy Hodgson has all the qualities that would make him perfect as England manager.

The Baggies 3-2 loss to Arsenal on Sunday was Hodgson’s last in charge of the Midlands side before he moves to take over the national team.

And Downing believes the 64-year-old possesses all the necessary traits to succeed in his new role ahead of the European Championships.

“Yeah, I think so,” Downing said when asked if the principals Hodgson possesses can help him moving forward into the summer.

“People talk about seniority and senior players, can they learn? I think they can always learn, senior players will tell you that.

“There is always something to learn. What Roy will give you is honesty, an integrity, a shape and a system and players will adhere to it and understand it.

“The way he speaks to people and man management about himself, he has all the attributes to go on and do a decent job at national level.”

Since the announcement that Hodgson was taking over as England manager, West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster, who missed the final game of the season due to a groin strain, is one name that has been linked with a possible return to the national set-up.

The former Manchester United and Birmingham City ace announced his retirement from the national side 12 months ago in order to focus on his club career.

And the 29-year-old has seen his performances improve considerably, leading to speculation that Hodgson will look to recall him to the England national side, something Downing believes is a distinct possibility.

“Very much so,” he added when asked if Hodgson being England manager could persuade the shot-stopper to come out of retirement.

“Ben knows how Roy works. I just feel that there has been some private conversation between them both.

“I don’t know any developments from that point of view, but Ben is fully aware to how Roy works and Roy will look after Ben and obviously work with him.

“I think Roy is still hopeful. His form has certainly warranted him to be included, if he wants to.”